The Parsava Parivartini Ekadasi observed during the waxing phase of moon in Bhadra month is associated with incarnation of Lord Vamana of Lord Vishnu and also with sleep of Vishnu during Chatur Mas period. Parivartini Ekadasi Vrat Katha (Story) extols the glory of the legendary King Bali.

King Bali was popular on earth for his honesty, compassion, justice and there was all-round prosperity in his kingdom. He made the utopia a reality. Although born into a family of Demons, King Bali was an ardent devotee of Lord Vishnu.

His glory and power made Indra (the lord of Demi Gods) weak. Soon King Bali overthrew Indra and took over the heavenly kingdom. Indra took refuge at the feet of Lord Vishnu.

Lord Vishnu took the form of Vamana – a dwarf Brahmin and went to the palace of King Bali who was conducting a huge Yajna. King Bali was distributing gifts to all gathered there and the young Vamana asked for three steps of land.

King Bali thought that three steps of land was too little and asked the young Brahman to ask for something more. But Vamana was adamant and he wanted only three steps of land. King Bali agreed and asked him to take three steps of land wherever he wanted.

Suddenly, Lord Vamana grew in gigantic proportions and those stood there could no longer see the face of Vamana Deva. In one step, Lord Vamana measured the heaven and in another step earth and there was no place to keep the third step. King Bali readily bowed his head and asked Lord Vamana to place the third step on this head. King Bali was thus pushed to the netherworld.

Satisfied with King Bali’s devotion, Lord Vishnu blessed him that he will live constantly with King Bali. The popular belief is that Lord Vishnu in the form of Vamana lives in the abode of King Bali.